The Lion's Roar

Good morning, McKinley Families,

As we approach the Thanksgiving break, I want to take a moment to reflect on gratitude—not just as a holiday tradition, but as a powerful practice that shapes our well-being and strengthens our community. Research shows that expressing gratitude can increase happiness, improve relationships, and even boost our physical health. It’s a habit worth cultivating every day, and I am reminded constantly of how much I have to be grateful for here at McKinley.

I am grateful for our students, who bring energy, curiosity, and joy to our campus. They remind us daily why we do what we do. I am grateful for you, our families, for your support, your partnership, and your trust in us as we work together to educate your children. And I am grateful for our incredible staff, who bring their skill, compassion, and dedication to creating an environment where the unique promise of each child is nurtured so that they continue to grow into the best versions of themselves.

Gratitude, as research tells us, is more than just a feeling—it’s a practice. One simple way we can encourage this practice at home and school is to help children name the things they are thankful for. This might be as small as a favorite book or as big as a close friend. Regularly recognizing these moments builds resilience and fosters a positive outlook.

As you head into the upcoming break, I hope you find time to reflect on your own moments of gratitude. Whether you spend it celebrating with loved ones, adventuring, resting, or simply enjoying time together, may this season bring peace and joy to you and your family.

Thank you for being part of what makes McKinley such a special community.

Wishing you all a restful and wonderful weekend.

In partnership,

Dr. Daniela Wiener (Dr. DW)
Principal, McKinley Elementary School

Thank you to those of you who joined us for Coffee with the Principal, Librarian and Reading Interventionist this week. It was great to learn more about your reading lives and share strategies about how to read at home with your child. For those of you who were unable to attend, please see the presentation below. The presentation contains resources at the end, including book recommendations for your children!

Parents, SMMUSD would like you to share your thoughts on our school which will help guide district and school efforts to promote safety, enhance learning supports, and improve student achievement. This survey should take about 10-15 minutes to complete. The survey window is from November 1 - November 26. For more info, and to take the survey, CLICK HERE.

We know—picture day right after Halloween? Whose brilliant idea was that? Between the sugar rushes, candy-coated hair, and the occasional zombie drool, let’s just say the original photos might not have captured your child’s best look. Good news: Picture Retake Day is your second chance to swap those post-Halloween shenanigans for a fresh, candy-free smile! So brush out the last of the Snickers crumbs, tuck in those shirts, and send your kiddos in ready to shine. Retakes will take place on 12/3 and we promise no ghosts or goblins this time around!

Thank you for supporting the McKinley Elementary PTA Santa Monica! We’ll receive profits from any items you purchase below. Order more to help us reach our fundraising goal! https://www.yumraising.com/secure/mckinleypos_mckinley_elementary_pta_santa_mon21/AliGod7430/

Come help out with Snack Sales! It's fun! Your child can help sell too! Arrive by 1:00 PM and meet up outside the parent room, located to the left of the 1st-grade classrooms. We’ll set up a table with delicious snacks, including popcorn and drinks. The sale ends promptly at 2:00 PM, and we’ll clean up quickly after. Click here to sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050A4FADAF28AAFE3-52304166-wednesday#/

McKinley's Lost and Found is packed with lots of your children's sweatshirts, lunchboxes and water bottles. Please come by and find your child's items before 11/26. We will be donating all items during Thanksgiving Break.

Save the date! Come hear the results of the Airport Conversion Project survey and determine a sustainable concept for Santa Monica Airport! December 7th at Memorial Park Gym from 1pm to 4pm

This Week

• November 27-29: No School due to Thanksgiving Break

• December 3: Retake Picture Day
  

• December 4: Parent Workshop - Helping Your Child with Homework

• December 4: Fire Drill

• December 4: 5th Grade Field Trip to the Nutcracker

• December 5: 5th Grade Music Performance 11:45:12:45

• December 6: Room Parent Meeting 9-10 AM, Zoom

• December 6: Jog-A-Thon T-Shirt Contest Begins

• December 6: See's Candy Fundraiser Closes